The
UDM once again extends its most profound sympathies and condolences to the
families and loved ones of the people who died, or were injured, in last
week’s tragedy at Ellispark. The UDM congratulates the football community, and
society at large, for the way in which they came together in the past week to
accommodate and console the families of victims.

The
immensity of this tragedy will linger with all South Africans for many years to
come. We have to acknowledge that our efforts to host the 2010 Soccer World Cup
have been adversely affected. It is unfortunate that many administrators do not
plough back their profits into infrastructure and spectator services. Is it a
matter of administrators thinking that the spectators come, irrespective of the
quality of service they receive?

The
organisers of this particular game have failed dismally in their duty. The
logistical implications of holding a contest of this magnitude on weeknight in a
relatively small stadium should have been foreseen. The pre-match hype was
incredible. As is common with important games, overselling of tickets, or
fraudulent tickets, have undoubtedly occurred. Adequate measures to control
large crowds of excited supporters have yet to be developed. The provision of
adequate public transport, and parking space, as well as crowd controllers, are
absolute prerequisites for matches of this magnitude. This tragedy could have
been avoided if these measures were in place. It would appear that the primary
reason for the stampede was because thousands of legitimate ticket holders were
still outside the stadium when the game commenced. Serious consideration should
be given to a regulation preventing soccer officials from allowing the start of
a game while legitimate ticket holders are still outside the gates. Otherwise it
appears as if commercial interests are more important than the potential loss of
life.

The
UDM calls on all stakeholders to give their full cooperation to the Judicial
Commission of Inquiry, to ensure that this process is resolved speedily and
solutions implemented as a matter of urgency.